Is driving on the shoulder to pass cars or let others pass — legal in North Carolina? Here’s the law

Many of North Carolina’s roads and highways have paved shoulders that allow drivers to pull over when necessary.Photo byTown Talks

In North Carolina, many roads and highways have paved shoulders that can be used in emergencies. However, the state's laws around using these shoulders differ significantly from those in Texas the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported.

Here's what you need to know about driving and parking on the shoulder in North Carolina.

Driving on the Shoulder in North Carolina

Letting Faster Vehicles Pass

In North Carolina, it is illegal to drive on the shoulder to allow faster vehicles to pass. Master Trooper Christopher Casey of the N.C. State Highway Patrol confirmed to The Charlotte Observer that drivers are only allowed to move their cars to the shoulder after a minor wreck or to let emergency vehicles pass.

Parking on the Shoulder

North Carolina law permits parking on the shoulder of a public road, provided that the vehicle can be seen from 200 feet in either direction and does not obstruct traffic.

Any vehicle parked or left standing in violation of the law may be removed immediately if it interferes with traffic flow or constitutes a hazard.

If a car is left parked on the shoulder for more than 24 hours, local law enforcement has the authority to tow it.

This difference in laws highlights the importance of understanding and adhering to the specific traffic regulations of each state.

Understanding these laws can help ensure safe and legal driving practices, especially when traveling between states with different regulations.